Generic Name

Carprofen

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Classification

FDA Approved Indications

• Pain relief and inflammation reduction in dogs with osteoarthritis
• Postoperative pain management in dogs

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2), enzymes involved in prostaglandin synthesis, leading to decreased inflammation, pain, and fever.

Dosage and Administration

Adult: Typically 2 mg/kg orally twice daily. Dosage may vary based on the condition and veterinarian discretion.

Pediatric: Not applicable; used in animals, specifically dogs.

Geriatric: Adjust dosage based on age and renal function, closely monitor elderly dogs.

Renal Impairment: Use with caution; dosage adjustment recommended, and renal function should be monitored.

Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; hepatic function should be considered.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Rapidly absorbed after oral administration.

Distribution: Widely distributed; crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Metabolism: Primarily hepatic metabolism.

Excretion: Excreted mainly via urine and feces.

Half Life: Approximately 8-12 hours in dogs.

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to carprofen or other NSAIDs.
• Pre-existing gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding.
• Severe hepatic or renal impairment.

Precautions

• Use with caution in animals with bleeding disorders.
• Monitor for gastrointestinal, hepatic, or renal adverse effects.
• Avoid concurrent use with other NSAIDs or corticosteroids unless directed by a veterinarian.

Adverse Reactions - Common

• Vomiting (Frequent)
• Diarrhea (Frequent)
• Anorexia (Infrequent)

Adverse Reactions - Serious

• Gastrointestinal ulceration or bleeding (Less common but serious)
• Hepatic toxicity (Rare)
• Renal toxicity (Rare)

Drug-Drug Interactions

• Other NSAIDs, corticosteroids, anticoagulants

Drug-Food Interactions

N/A

Drug-Herb Interactions

N/A

Nursing Implications

Patient/Family Teaching

• Administer with food or after meals to reduce gastrointestinal upset.
• Notify veterinarian if vomiting, diarrhea, blood in stool, or signs of allergic reaction occur.
• Do not give additional NSAIDs or corticosteroids unless directed by veterinarian.

Special Considerations

Black Box Warnings:

• Gastrointestinal ulceration, bleeding, and perforation, which can be fatal.
• Hepatotoxicity and renal toxicity, especially in animals with pre-existing conditions or when used long-term.

Genetic Factors: Breeds like Collies may have increased sensitivity to NSAIDs.

Lab Test Interference: May affect serum liver enzyme levels, kidney function tests.

Overdose Management

Signs/Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, lethargy, melena, hematemesis, signs of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Treatment: Induce emesis if recent ingestion, administer activated charcoal, provide supportive care, IV fluids, and monitor organ functions. Consult veterinarian immediately.

Storage and Handling

Storage: Store in a tightly closed container at room temperature, protected from light.

Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions for shelf life. Discard after expiration date.